MODALS

VERBS OF
ABILITY
Modal • Modal verbs are auxiliary
verbs (also called helping
Verbs verbs) like can, will,
could, shall, must,
would, might, and
should.
 Modal Three modal verbs show
Verbs of ability in English:

Ability 1. Can
2. Could
3. Be Able To
Here are Present
some
examples: • I can play the guitar.
• She can speak German.
• Mike can swim well.
Here are • Past
some • I could sing very well
examples:
when I was young.
• She could read when she
was 4 years old.
Here are • Future
some • I will be able to drive a
examples:
car in 2 years.
• He will be able to buy a
house next year.
• I have been able to visit
many countries in my life.
• She used to be able to
dance the Tango.
• Mike will have been able to
finish by tomorrow.
 NEGATIVES

 I can not play piano.

 She can’t play piano.
 She could not finish her homework last night.
 They couldn’t finish their homework last night.
 I will not be able to go to the party tonight.
 Susan won’t be able to go to the party tonight.
QUESTIONS
• Can you drive a car?
• Could he swim?
• Will Doug be able to bring his boots?
• Will he be able to finish on time?
 Fill in the 1. _______ Tony run long distances
correct form when he was a boy?
of can, could 2. ______ you please call a tow truck
or be able to for me? My car broke down.
as (polite)
in the 3. ______ you teach me how to fix
examples. my computer?
4. You’re so good at it. ______ you
______ reach the customer if you
call him at 4:00 his time?